The Institute of Asian Studies at Chulalongkorn University, through The Multicultural Studies and Social Innovation Center (MSSIC), has launched the documentary "MUAYTHAI: POWER & SPIRIT" to showcase Muaythai's cultural and historical significance on the global stage. The July 26, 2024 premiere was held at House Samyan Cinema, reflecting the university's commitment to elevating Thai culture through academic excellence and practical application.
This documentary is a product of the research project "Fists of Order: Reviving the History of Muaythai on the Global Stage," led by Professor Dr Sunait Chutintaranond, Director of The Multicultural Studies and Social Innovation Center (MSSIC) under the supervision of the Institute of Asian Studies, Chulalongkorn University. The project is primarily supported by the Programme Management Unit for Competitiveness (PMUC) under the Global Partnership Plan for the 2023 fiscal year. Additional partners include TV Burabha Co., Ltd., Banchamek Co., Ltd., Asia Research Center (ARC) under the Institute of Asian Studies, Chulalongkorn University, the Ministry of Culture, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Behind the Scenes of the Documentary "MUAYTHAI: POWER AND SPIRIT"
Behind the Scenes of the Documentary "MUAYTHAI: POWER AND SPIRIT"
The documentary "Muaythai: Power & Spirit" delves into the historical aspects of Muaythai, exploring its origins and unique techniques across different regions, such as Lopburi, Korat (Nakhon Ratchasima), Tha Sao (Uttaradit), and Chaiya (Surat Thani). The film aims to highlight the value of Muaythai, showcasing the power and spirit of its fighters, whose essence remains unchanged despite the passing of time. Muaythai is not just about physical strength; it also combines strategy, skill, and body coordination into one. Thus, Muaythai is an art and science that decisively and gracefully defeats opponents. The documentary features Lieutenant Sombat Banchamek (Buakaw), a world-renowned Muaythai fighter, as the main subject, alongside Sergeant Saksit Phanthamas from the 102nd Signal Battalion, 1st Signal Regiment, Kampaengphet Akrayothin Camp.
The documentary film "MUAYTHAI: POWER & SPIRIT," which is 45 minutes long, has been subtitled in seven languages, including English, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Spanish, Russian, and Arabic. It is prepared for international release through collaborations with government sectors, private organisations, and the International Federation of Muaythai Associations (IFMA). This marks a new dimension in driving the dissemination of research on Thai culture to both national and international levels in the form of entertainment media, bringing benefits in terms of both 'cultural value' and 'economic value' to Thai society. Furthermore, it aligns with the government's current focus on the Soft Power policy.
Prof. Dr. Wilert Puriwat, Acting President of Chulalongkorn University
During the event, Prof.Dr. Wilert Puriwat, Acting President of Chulalongkorn University, stated that “The university recognises the importance of producing research that meets the needs of the country and the global societal context comprehensively. The university focuses on academic excellence along with practical application that generates social impact. The documentary "MUAYTHAI: POWER AND SPIRIT" not only creates a synergy between the expertise of various sectors—thinkers, creators, users, and supporters—but also transmits the value of Muaythai to the international audience with both science and art. This will continue to strengthen Thailand's Soft Power.”
Mr. Wannee Nonsiri, Assistant Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (NHSO), in his opening remarks, stated that “The documentary under the research project "Fists of Order: Reviving the History of Muaythai on the Global Stage" serves as a pioneering effort to transform cultural research into innovative outputs, taking it to an even more challenging level. This initiative opens a new pathway for some research projects to move beyond academia and gain international recognition. It is a significant part of the Program Management Unit for Competitiveness's (PMUC) work, aligning with the Ministry's role in supporting the government's Soft Power policy.”
Mr. Wannee Nonsiri, Assistant Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (NHSO)
Professor Dr. Sunait Chutintaranond, Director of The Multicultural Studies and Social Innovation Center (MSSIC) under the supervision of Institute of ASIAN Studies, Chulalongkorn University, and the project's lead, stated that “This documentary aims to generate new knowledge while enhancing existing knowledge already recognised internationally. One of the project's goals is to establish Thailand as the "Mecca of Muaythai," where anyone wishing to learn the true essence and values of Muaythai, regardless of where they study it globally, must come to Thailand. This is the primary objective of "MUAYTHAI: POWER AND SPIRIT."
Professor Dr. Sunait Chutintaranond, Director of The Multicultural Studies and Social Innovation Center under the supervision of Institute of ASIAN Studies, Chulalongkorn University, as the project’s head
Dr. Sakchai Tapsuwan, President of International Federation of Muaythai Associations (IFMA), praised the documentary for showing viewers the true nature of Muaythai, particularly its power and spirit. He noted that “If these aspects are shared internationally, it would deepen the understanding, love, and respect for Muaythai among enthusiasts abroad, while also fostering a greater appreciation for Thai culture.”
Lieutenant Sombat Banchamek (Buakaw), a world-renowned Thai boxer and a key partner in the project, spoke about the documentary, saying it effectively conveys the ancient art of Muaythai. He emphasised that “The documentary preserves the value of Muaythai and adds to its cultural significance. For those interested in Muaythai, especially younger generations, this documentary offers a way to learn about its history and importance. Moreover, it provides foreign audiences with insights into Thai culture and the challenging journey of becoming a top fighter, which requires dedication, faith, and determination. The documentary will help people understand Muaythai and its practitioners on a deeper level.”
Lieutenant Sombat Banchamek (Buakaw) and Dr. Sakchai Tapsuwan, President of International Federation of Muaythai Associations (IFMA)
Furthermore, Dr. Surapong Suebwonglee, director and secretary of the National Soft Power Strategy Committee, stated that “Muaythai is both an art and a cultural heritage, serving as a powerful and captivating soft power that leaves a lasting impression. This documentary showcases the science, art, and spirit of Muaythai, truly living up to its title "MUAYTHAI: POWER AND SPIRIT." It is a significant milestone in spreading the depth and value of Muaythai to the world, elevating it beyond just a combat sport or a profession that represents masculinity. Muaythai also fosters physical and mental development, and this documentary can communicate to the world that it is a cultural heritage of Thailand that can be widely shared. This documentary could be the starting point of a major development in Muaythai that will benefit humanity in the future.”
Watch a trailer for the documentary “MUAYTHAI: POWER & SPIRIT” at https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=336255439569034 and follow more news at Facebook Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/MSSICChula/ .
The atmosphere of the screening of the documentary "MUAYTHAI: POWER AND SPIRIT" at House 3 Cinema, House Samyan, 5th Floor, Samyan Mitrtown